It has been a month since our last podcast. The holidays disrupted our schedules, and BG fell ill with Covid, the flu, and who knows what else. This experience made us consider the value of good health, and how one does not truly appreciate it until it is gone. This emphasis on health is why Jon originally established ICT and continues to be a priority for Kodiak Pro. BG and Jon have a detailed discussion about the methods by which concrete artisans can prioritize their health in their shops. 
In other news, an exciting workshop is approaching. The Concrete Hero's Quest will take place April 26th-29th, 2023 in Napa, CA. It will be held at Joe Bates' shop for 3.5 days, during which we will delve into a single, ambitious project: a post-tensioned concrete conference table. We will use sprayed GFRC, SCC, and troweled techniques. It will be a worthy endeavor to work together as a team to solve problems, construct, cast, finish, and seal a remarkable piece. There will also be ample time for meaningful discussion. If you have been waiting to invest in a class that is worth your time and money, friend, now is the time.

ATTENTION ADVENTURE SEEKERS! ARE YOU READY TO EMBARK ON A HANDS-ON JOURNEY AND BECOME A CONCRETE HERO?

Join us for our 3.5 day workshop, the Concrete Hero's Quest, where you'll work as a team to design and construct a one-of-a-kind post-tensioned concrete table. Using state-of-the-art equipment, you'll mix and spray GFRC, cure and de-mold the table, and finish and seal it to perfection.

This exciting workshop is not for the faint of heart – it requires teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity. But with the support and guidance of our experienced instructors, you'll have all the tools you need to succeed on your hero's journey.

* Day One: We'll dive into the world of design. You'll work alongside Joe Bates, Jon Schuler, and Brandon Gore to create and present different concepts and details for a post-tensioned concrete conference table. In the afternoon, we'll get our hands dirty as we work together to build the form for the table.
* Day Two: We'll continue to fine-tune the form and prepare it for casting. We'll discuss the ins and outs of mixing and spraying GFRC (glass fiber reinforced concrete) before putting our knowledge to the test and casting UHPC (ultra-high performance concrete) using state-of-the-art equipment and processes.
* Day Three: We'll start the day with an open discussion about any questions you may have about the concrete industry, including pricing, sales and marketing, coloring concrete, and working with architects and designers. We'll then de-mold the conference table and spend the afternoon working on processing it.
* Day Four (half day): On the final day of the workshop, we'll seal the conference table using ICT Reactive Sealer, going through the entire process from start to finish. 

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to learn new skills, make new friends, and create something truly special. Gain the confidence you need to transition from simple concrete countertops to large, complex designs. Sign up for the Concrete Hero's Quest today and become a hero in the world of decorative concrete.

Register for the Hero’s Quest: http://www.concretedesignschool.com/concrete-heros-quest

Want to continue the conversation? First things first, LIKE us on Facebook www.facebook.com/kodiakpromaterials to receive notifications on new products, tutorials, and events.

Then join the private Kodiak Pro Discussion Group to ask questions pertaining to concrete countertops, sinks, and furniture, and/or Kodiak Pro products www.facebook.com/groups/kodiakpro 

Follow us on Instagram:
 Concrete Podcast www.instagram.com/concretepodcast Kodiak Pro www.instagram.com/kodiak_pro

BG + Jon, Kodiak Pro - Health Matters: The Importance of Wellness in the Concrete Industry

This installment of 'The Concrete Podcast' is a treasure trove for Makers, DIY enthusiasts, and Weekend Warriors alike. Exploring the very project that often sparks an interest in concrete work—the creation of a concrete countertop. Tune in to discover a comprehensive guide on crafting your own concrete countertop, encompassing everything from creating templates and selecting mold materials to constructing molds, calculating the right mix, the mixing process, casting, curing, processing, and sealing! The wealth of information shared in this episode easily rivals that of a $1,000 class.

C.D.S., renowned for its advanced training, is now addressing the demand for a beginner's class. With over two decades of hands-on experience as skilled concrete artisans, crafting exquisite countertops and sinks, our highly qualified instructors are set to lead a comprehensive 1.5-day workshop. Participants will acquire expertise in templating, form building, precise concrete mix calculations, tool utilization, batch mixing techniques, casting methods, curing methods, de-molding, blemish correction, concrete sealing, and installation proficiency through insightful discussions. This workshop serves as the ideal entry point for those embarking on their concrete journey, emphasizing the importance of a strong foundation. Investing in this training is a crucial step toward a promising future in the concrete industry, guided by seasoned concrete experts. Join us for this invaluable learning experience!

December 4th and 5th, Goddard, Kansas, USA

Register: http://www.concretedesignschool.com/our-fundamental-concrete-workshop

For the highest quality concrete mix and sealer for concrete artisans, designed and made by concrete artisans: https://www.kodiakpro.com

Want to continue the conversation? First things first, LIKE us on Facebook www.facebook.com/kodiakpromaterials to receive notifications on new products, tutorials, and events.

Then join the private Kodiak Pro Discussion Group to ask questions pertaining to concrete countertops, sinks, and furniture, and/or Kodiak Pro products www.facebook.com/groups/kodiakpro 

Follow us on Instagram:
 Concrete Podcast www.instagram.com/concretepodcast Kodiak Pro www.instagram.com/kodiak_pro

#concretecountertop #concretecountertops #concretebench #concretebenchtop #concretemaker #diyconcrete #diycountertop #uhpc #gfrc #kodiakpro #concretemix

How to Craft a Concrete Countertop: A Masterclass for Makers

After a three-week break, we’re back—and we’ve got a full pour of insights for you. This episode of The Concrete Podcast is all about setting yourself up for success, whether you’re crafting a massive casting table, mastering the art of intentional mottling in concrete, or understanding why Design Is Every Thing. We’ll also talk about an upcoming Kodiak Pro Demo Day (a free event you won’t want to miss) and how you can support Noel Moniot’s GoFundMe. If you’re in the business of making things that last, this one’s for you.

Enhance your concrete design skills with our upcoming workshops and events:

RammCrete Workshop 
Dates: March 29-30, 2025 
Location: Goddard, KS 
Description: Master Brandon Gore's exclusive RammCrete technique in this 1.5-day workshop. Learn mold construction, mix design, application, and finishing to create high-end concrete designs like wall panels, furniture, and sinks.

Concrete Hero's Quest 
Dates: May 6-7, 2025 
Location: Napa, CA 
Description: Join industry leaders for a 2-day hands-on workshop covering Upright Casting Techniques (UCT) and RammCrete. Gain practical experience in mixing, casting, finishing, and sealing complex concrete designs.

The Basics: Fundamental Concrete Workshop 
Dates: June 7-8, 2025 
Location: Goddard, KS 
Description: Ideal for beginners, this 1.5-day workshop led by expert artisans with over 20 years of experience covers essential skills including templating, form building, concrete mixing, casting, curing, sealing, and installation.

Kodiak Pro Demo Day 
Date: June 21, 2025 
Location: Gore Design Co. Studio, Goddard, KS 
Time: 10 AM - 2 PM 
Description: Attend the inaugural Kodiak Pro Demo Day for a hands-on experience with no limits. This free event has limited spots available.

For more details and registration, please visit the respective event pages.
 
#ConcreteCraft #MakerMindset #DesignMatters #CreativeEntrepreneur #BuildBetter #ArtOfMaking #ConstructionLife #CraftAndDesign #StoryInStone #KodiakPro

The Foundation of Good Design: Casting Tables, Mottling Magic & the Art of Building Things That Last

You poured your heart into that concrete countertop, but now the sealer’s failing, and you're stuck wondering how to fix it. Maybe you're considering a concrete kitchen sink—spoiler alert: don’t. This week on The Concrete Podcast, BG and Jon lay out the hard truths and smart strategies for maintaining concrete countertops, stripping failing sealers, and making design choices that actually boost your profitability. Plus, we’ll break down why buying from Kodiak Pro isn’t just about materials—it’s about joining a movement that puts makers first.

If you’re in the concrete game, this episode will save you time, money, and frustration. Tune in, take notes, and let’s build something better.

Enhance your concrete design skills with our upcoming workshops and events:

/// RammCrete Workshop – March 29-30, 2025, in Goddard, KS. Step into the world of high-end concrete with Brandon Gore’s exclusive RammCrete technique. In this 1.5-day intensive, you’ll master mold construction, mix design, and application methods that transform raw material into striking wall panels, furniture, and sinks. Elevate your craftsmanship and stand out in the industry.

/// Concrete Hero's Quest – May 6-7, 2025, in Napa, CA. An epic 2-day hands-on workshop where industry leaders take you through the game-changing techniques of Upright Casting (UCT) and RammCrete. Get hands-on with mixing, casting, finishing, and sealing complex concrete designs while networking with like-minded artisans in the heart of Napa, CA.

/// The Basics: Fundamental Concrete Workshop – June 7-8, 2025, in Goddard, KS. New to concrete? This 1.5-day foundational workshop is designed for beginners looking to build a strong skillset. Led by expert artisans with over 20 years of experience, you'll gain hands-on training in templating, form building, mixing, casting, curing, sealing, and installation—everything you need to start creating professional-quality work.

/// Kodiak Pro Demo Day – June 21, 2025, at Gore Design Co. Studio in Goddard, KS, from 10 AM to 2 PM. Join us for the first-ever Kodiak Pro Demo Day, a free, hands-on experience where concrete enthusiasts get unrestricted access to cutting-edge materials and techniques. Spots are limited—secure yours now and experience why Kodiak Pro is unlike anything else in the industry.

For more details and registration, please visit the respective event pages.

 #ConcreteDesign #Craftsmanship #SmallBusinessGrowth #ConcreteCountertops #DIYProjects #EntrepreneurMindset #MakerCommunity #HomeImprovement #KodiakPro

Concrete Countertops: Fixing Mistakes, Making Profits, and Choosing the Right Mix

Success in concrete—like life—is about knowing what to fix, what to charge for, and what to let go. In this episode of The Concrete Podcast, we’re talking shop on everything from perfecting your mix to getting paid for storage, because craftsmanship isn't just about the pour—it’s about the business behind it.

We’ll cover:

* MatteMax mastery—how to get stronger, more predictable results.
* The art of charging for storage—why holding client pieces shouldn’t come out of your pocket.
* Polytek 74-29 White Rubber for molds—first impressions and what it means for your workflow.
* Brandon Gore’s new live-stream setup—a peek into the studio, raw and unfiltered.
* Fixing an unevenly acid-etched cast-in-place countertop—before sealing locks in the problem.
* Common mistakes that cost you time and money, including:
    * Overwatering your mix (hello, weak concrete).
    * Why rebar is the wrong move for reinforcement.
    * The truth about curing time—why patience equals strength.
    * What really causes hairline cracks (hint: it’s not what you think).
    * Salvaging a warped slab—when to fix it, when to walk away.

If you’re in the business of making concrete—and making it well—this one’s for you. Tune in, take notes, and let’s make sure your next project is your best one yet.

 #ConcreteWisdom #MakerMindset #BuildBetter #ConcreteCraft #EntrepreneurLife #ConcreteCountertops #DIYConcrete #HandmadeBusiness #ConstructionHacks #CreativeProblemSolving

Concrete Countertop Mistakes: What DIYers and Pros Keep Getting Wrong

The Concrete Podcast is dedicated to making the Concrete World a better place. Join Brandon Gore and Jon Schuler as they discuss all things related to high-end decorative concrete; GFRC, ECC, UHPC, Concrete Countertops, Concrete Sinks, Sealer, Tools, Training, and more! New episodes released weekly.

New tracks tagged #KodiakPro